The bill H.650, introduced by Representatives Arsenault and Graning, aims to enhance the protection of personal information in the context of educational technology. It mandates that providers of educational technology products register annually with the Secretary of State, pay a registration fee, and provide specific information about their products, including privacy policies. The bill establishes a new subchapter under 9 V.S.A. that outlines definitions related to educational technology, the registration process, and penalties for non-compliance. Notably, it replaces the term "chapter" with "subchapter" in the enforcement section, indicating a structural change in the law.

Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary of State to create certification standards for educational technology products, which must be met before schools can use these products. The standards will consider various factors, including compliance with state curriculum standards and data privacy practices. Schools are required to submit a list of currently used educational technology products by December 15, 2026, and may continue using non-certified products until June 30, 2027. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with the certification requirement commencing on July 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 9-62